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Health

The Unexpected Mistake You Can Make When Opening Packages

May 27, 2020 by Hannah Kerns
shefinds | Health
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With many stores closed and people ordering packages more and more, it’s important to keep in mind the best ways to stay safe while bringing packages into your home. Specifically, keeping necessary hygiene practices in mind (even while staying at home) is important.

With that in mind, keep reading for the unexpected mistake you can make when opening packages!

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Not Washing Your Hands

It's important to keep hygiene in mind when it comes to opening packages, especially since we do not currently know how long coronavirus can last on paper.

 

Although coronavirus is mostly spread through person-to-person contact, it can also be spread by contaminated surfaces. According to WebMD, "After opening your mail and throwing away the envelopes, thoroughly wash your hands to be on the safe side."

packages

The article continues, explaining how coronavirus can spread: "The novel coronavirus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets after someone coughs or sneezes. It’s possible to spread from contaminated surfaces as well."

 

Your packages might be one of these contaminated surfaces.

washing hands

It can also a good idea to leave packages outside for a bit before bringing them into the house.

 

WebMD continues, "When you look at the larger family of coronaviruses, which includes the new coronavirus, research shows the time they can live on paper varies by strain. Some can live only for a few minutes while others may live up to 5 days."

packages

Either way, making sure to wash your hands after opening packages is a good extra precaution to stay safe and healthy, while also avoiding bringing any unwanted germs or viruses into your home.

Author:

Associate Editor

Hannah Kerns pitches and writes compelling stories for SheFinds' readers. When she isn't listening to podcasts or catching up on true crime, she covers the latest in beauty, health, fashion, and celebrity news. To reach Hannah, email hannah@shefinds.com.

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Seeds as a healthier alternative to pastries.
Grocery store aisle with sugar and artificial sweeteners.
Person enjoying a healthy lunch outdoors.
Enjoying a cup of spearmint tea for health benefits.
Frustrated older woman touching her head in distress.
Woman experiencing chest pain while sitting.
Assorted types of bread displayed on a table.
Woman holding her head, experiencing stress or pain.
Woman in discomfort from joint pain issues.
Popular café drinks from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks.
Woman adding sugar to her aromatic morning coffee.
Wooden board featuring bagels, blueberries, and butter.
Pouring vitamin D supplement into palm for daily intake.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil usage.
Older woman taking supplements with a glass of water.
Top view of a Brazilian dish with rice and beans.
Handful of assorted dietary supplements on display.
Person checking time while enjoying breakfast meal.
Pouring supplement powder into a glass for mixing.
Woman exercising and maintaining fitness outdoors.